Cheteshwar Pujara, one of the most trusted test batsmen of the modern era of India, has announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket. In an emotional statement on Sunday (August 24), the veteran of Rajkot said that representing India, wearing a national jersey, and the song “Beyond the words” was the experience.
Pujara, 36, was last played for India at the Oval against Australia at the 2023 ICC World Test Championships. He represented the country in 103 trials, with 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 fifties. He was at India’s main Amative number 3 for more than a decade and created his reputation on grit, peace and immense concentration at the crease.
Cheteshwar Pujara announced retirement from all forms of Indian cricket
In his statement, Pujara reflected on his visit:
“As a small boy in the small town of Rajkot, with my parents, I am ready to aim for stars, and dreamed of being a part of the Indian cricket team. Little I knew that this game would give me so much – invaluable opportunity, price, experience, purpose, love, and my state and the opportunity to represent this great country.”
“Wearing an Indian jersey, singing anthem, and every time I step on the field, I am doing my best – it is impossible to keep in words what it really means. But as they say, all good things should be finished, and with immense gratitude I have decided to retire from all forms of Indian cricket.”
He thanked BCCI, Saurashtra Cricket Association, his coaches, team companions, sponsors and his family, especially his sacrifices as the foundation of his career.
A test stallwart
Pujara’s biggest legacy lies in Test cricket, where his technology and nature made him the backbone of India’s batting. He defined the innings of both at home and abroad, often presenting opposition attacks. His most memorable performance came to Australia during India’s historic 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Triumph, where he scored 521 runs at an average of 74.42, with more than 1,200 delivery. His heroic disregard and marathon batting gave him the Player of the Series Award and strengthened his place as one of the finest Test experts in India.
